Sensory Processing

Everyone has a sensory processing system, and each one is unique. Sensory processing is how we interpret and respond to environmental input that we hear, see, feel, smell, and taste. Some people may not even realize that some of their “quirks” or preferences are driven by their own sensory system. Understanding sensory processing can be challenging, so this post aims to help you gain a better understanding of what it is, how it impacts people, and what we can do about it. 

The Five + Two Senses 

Everyone’s sensory system is unique. Some people may respond less to input, some may respond more, and some may have mixed responses. A pediatric occupational therapy evaluation includes questions about a child’s response to everyday input. These answers help determine how a child’s sensory system is functioning and what their specific needs may be. 

Sensory Dysfunction 

• Overwhelmed by loud/crowded places 
• Overreaction to bright light 
• Discomfort with certain clothing textures 
• Clumsiness or lack of coordination 
• Constantly touching people or objects 
• Fear of slides, swings, or climbing 
• Light touch seems painful 
• Difficulty managing big emotions such as frustration and excitement 
• Gagging on or refusing certain food textures 
• Poor safety awareness 
• Seeking out strong sensations like crashing, jumping, or running frequently 

Common Terms in Sensory Processing 

Sensory Seeking describes children who love to run, crash, jump, and climb all day long. These children have an under-responsive sensory system and do not interpret everyday input as well as a typical sensory system. For example, they may stomp their feet or jump while walking to gain sensory feedback. Sensory seeking can become disruptive to a child’s activities, as their primary goal is to gain strong input. 

Sensory Avoiding describes children who over-respond to sensory input. They may have extreme reactions to bright lights, haircuts, nail trimming, or messy hands and faces. While some of these can be personal preferences, when they interfere with daily routines, intervention might be necessary. 

Mixed Sensory Processing Skills can be the most challenging and complicated but are also common. These children have a sensory system that can both over- and under-respond to sensory input, with inconsistent responses day-to-day. This inconsistency can significantly impact their ability to participate in daily activities. 

Sensory Diets 

The purpose of a sensory diet is to maintain regulation by providing extra input during daily tasks. The goal is to integrate these activities into the child's routine and, as they grow older, to help them manage their own regulation independently. Self-regulation is the ability to control emotional and physical states appropriately in various environments. 

For example, a child who is under-responsive or sensory seeking will frequently look for input through movement. This seeking behavior can be disruptive and sometimes a safety concern. The goal with a sensory diet is to provide the input in a more functional way, decreasing seeking behavior and increasing attention to social interaction, play, eating, and sleep. 

Collaboration and Education 

Learning about sensory processing can be overwhelming. There are many resources available, including podcasts, to help absorb all the information. Hopefully, this post provides a better understanding of sensory processing, how to recognize it, and ways to manage it with help from a pediatric occupational therapist.